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Scientists at Colossal Biosciences have created "woolly mice" with thicker fur by modifying genes associated with hair growth, a step towards their goal of resurrecting the woolly mammoth. The mice, created using mammoth DNA, exhibit a dramatically fluffier coat than normal mice. While this doesn't confirm cold resistance, the success demonstrates the potential of gene editing. The mammoth project aims to create a hybrid with Asian elephants, but faces skepticism regarding the timeline and ethical implications, including the potential diversion of resources from conservation efforts of extant species. The long-term success of the project and the survival of any resulting mammoth-elephant hybrid remain uncertain.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.